To make sense of the city of Montpelier controversy recently reported in the news, I have realized that valuable information comes from the people (besides Mayor Hollar and Gwen Hallsmith) with direct knowledge and experience with the issues. Journalistic accounts and letters from interested citizens provide minimal information value because, frankly, these are incomplete, involve speculation, and/or come from people with a specific ďax to grind.Ē So what have I learned? The statements and letters to the editor made by current or former city public servants overwhelmingly suggest Mayor Hollar has acted reasonably and that Hallsmith has underperformed. As a taxpayer of Montpelier, I ask the city to take every step to evaluate fully her work performance and act accordingly. All taxpayers/voters will have an opportunity to express their opinion about the mayor next March. These recent events reinforce my support for Mayor Hollar.